The Magic Doll by Adrienne Yabouza

 

Title: The Magic Doll

Author: Adrienne Yabouza

Illustrator: Elodie Nouhen

Publisher: Prestel Publishing

ISBN: 9783791374468

 

Review:

In some African cultures a fratility doll is believed to help women become pregnant. These dolls are generally carved from wood. They called Akua’ba the Ashanti doll. Songs and poems were created by artists and meant to have a social function. 

Before Adjoa was born her mother had difficulty getting pregnant. She made an Ashanti doll to help her become fertile. She treated the doll as if it were a child by carrying it on her back, talking to it and so on. The other mothers would make fun of her because she didn’t have a child of her own. Many seasons passed and soon Adjoa was born. Adjoa treated the doll as if it were a sister, but soon a brother was born and they were all a family.

This heartfelt story is perfect for sharing history and culture. Parents and teachers can share this with young readers so they can learn about family and the Ashanti doll. This beautifully illustrated story shows how these African women cared for their children. These dolls can be found in many museums. The back pages tell the history and places where the dolls are revered.

 

Courtesy of Media Masters Publicity